Difference between revisions of "The Sims 2"
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|developers = | |developers = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Maxis}} | {{Infobox game/row/developer|Maxis}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/developer|EA Redwood Shores|Pets, Apartment Life}} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Aspyr Media|OS X}} | {{Infobox game/row/porter|Aspyr Media|OS X}} | ||
|publishers = | |publishers = | ||
Line 15: | Line 16: | ||
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|the-sims-2|71}} | {{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|the-sims-2|71}} | ||
|taxonomy = | |taxonomy = | ||
− | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization | | + | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack, DLC, Sponsored, Cross-game bonus }} |
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes | Singleplayer }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing | Real-time }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives | Bird's-eye view }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls | Point and select }} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | Life sim }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | Life sim }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes | Contemporary, Zombies }} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | The Sims }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | The Sims }} | ||
|steam appid = | |steam appid = | ||
|gogcom id = | |gogcom id = | ||
+ | |official site= https://web.archive.org/web/20120701000000*/http://thesims2.ea.com/ | ||
+ | |hltb = 10187 | ||
+ | |lutris = the-sims-2 | ||
|strategywiki = The Sims 2 | |strategywiki = The Sims 2 | ||
− | |mobygames = | + | |mobygames = 14877 |
|wikipedia = The Sims 2 | |wikipedia = The Sims 2 | ||
|winehq = 1942 | |winehq = 1942 | ||
Line 27: | Line 40: | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | + | {{Introduction | |
− | {{ | + | |introduction = |
− | + | ||
+ | |release history = | ||
+ | |||
+ | |current state = | ||
+ | }} | ||
'''General information''' | '''General information''' | ||
− | {{mm}} [https | + | {{mm}} [https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/categories/the-sims-2-general-discussion The Sims 2 Official Forums] |
− | |||
{{mm}} [https://answers.ea.com/t5/Other-The-Sims-Games/bd-p/other-sims-games-en EA Answer HQ] | {{mm}} [https://answers.ea.com/t5/Other-The-Sims-Games/bd-p/other-sims-games-en EA Answer HQ] | ||
{{mm}} [https://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-Mac/bd-p/The-Sims-Mac EA Answer HQ] (OS X) | {{mm}} [https://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-Mac/bd-p/The-Sims-Mac EA Answer HQ] (OS X) | ||
Line 39: | Line 55: | ||
==Availability== | ==Availability== | ||
{{Availability| | {{Availability| | ||
− | {{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc, Key | {{DRM|SafeDisc|v3}}. | + | {{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc, Key | {{DRM|SafeDisc|v3}}. Later expansions use v4 or {{DRM|SecuROM|7|SecuROM PA}}.<br>A [https://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ De-Authorization Tool] is available for three expansions.<br>Custom {{term|DRM}} code may sabotage the game by disabling the build mode and the saving system.<br>Released on 4 CDs or 1 DVD. | | Windows }} |
{{Availability/row| MacApp | id883782620 | MacApp | Super Collection. | | OS X }} | {{Availability/row| MacApp | id883782620 | MacApp | Super Collection. | | OS X }} | ||
− | {{Availability/row| Origin | | Origin | | + | {{Availability/row| Origin | | Origin | Pulled from the Origin store in August 2014. | | Windows | unavailable}} |
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
{{++}} All Origin versions are automatically upgraded to The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection. Contact the [http://help.ea.com/en/contact-us/ EA Support] for retail versions.<ref name="Ultimate">[http://help.ea.com/en/article/the-sims-2-ultimate-collection-faq/ Origin - The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection FAQ]</ref> | {{++}} All Origin versions are automatically upgraded to The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection. Contact the [http://help.ea.com/en/contact-us/ EA Support] for retail versions.<ref name="Ultimate">[http://help.ea.com/en/article/the-sims-2-ultimate-collection-faq/ Origin - The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection FAQ]</ref> | ||
− | |||
{{++}} The Ultimate Collection from Origin no longer uses {{removed DRM|SecuROM}}.<ref name="NoSecurom">[http://simscommunity.info/2017/11/02/the-sims-2-ultimate-collection-securom-update/ The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection: SecuRom Update - Sims Community]</ref> However, it still requires Origin running to play. | {{++}} The Ultimate Collection from Origin no longer uses {{removed DRM|SecuROM}}.<ref name="NoSecurom">[http://simscommunity.info/2017/11/02/the-sims-2-ultimate-collection-securom-update/ The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection: SecuRom Update - Sims Community]</ref> However, it still requires Origin running to play. | ||
+ | {{ii}} Multiple faithful, higher quality icons can be found on [https://www.steamgriddb.com/game/33546/icons SteamGridDB]. | ||
===Version differences=== | ===Version differences=== | ||
{{ii}} List of all different versions and regions can be found on {{W|The Sims 2#Core game editions|Wikipedia}}. | {{ii}} List of all different versions and regions can be found on {{W|The Sims 2#Core game editions|Wikipedia}}. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==Monetization== | ||
+ | {{Monetization | ||
+ | |ad-supported = | ||
+ | |cross-game bonus = Worlds made in [[SimCity 4]] can be imported as neighborhood templates. | ||
+ | |dlc = Between 2008 and 2011, a "The Sims 2 Store Edition" client that required ''Pets'' and was included with ''Apartment Life'',<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://sims.fandom.com/wiki/The_Sims_2_Store_Edition|title=The Sims 2 Store Edition|date=28 March 2023}}</ref> could be used to buy items for real money. | ||
+ | |expansion pack = The game has 8 expansion packs, and 9 "Stuff" packs. | ||
+ | |freeware = | ||
+ | |free-to-play = | ||
+ | |one-time game purchase = The base game is sold for money. | ||
+ | |sponsored = ''H&M Fashion Stuff'' and ''IKEA Home Stuff'' were sponsored by Hennes & Mauritz and IKEA respectively. | ||
+ | |subscription = | ||
+ | |subscription gaming service = | ||
+ | }} | ||
{{DLC| | {{DLC| | ||
Line 58: | Line 87: | ||
{{DLC/row| Seasons | Expansion 5 | Windows, OS X }} | {{DLC/row| Seasons | Expansion 5 | Windows, OS X }} | ||
{{DLC/row| Bon Voyage | Expansion 6 |Windows, OS X }} | {{DLC/row| Bon Voyage | Expansion 6 |Windows, OS X }} | ||
− | {{DLC/row| | + | {{DLC/row| FreeTime | Expansion 7 |Windows}} |
{{DLC/row| Apartment Life | Expansion 8 |Windows}} | {{DLC/row| Apartment Life | Expansion 8 |Windows}} | ||
{{DLC/row| Family Fun Stuff | Stuff pack 1 |Windows, OS X}} | {{DLC/row| Family Fun Stuff | Stuff pack 1 |Windows, OS X}} | ||
Line 68: | Line 97: | ||
{{DLC/row| Kitchen & Bath Interior Design Stuff | Stuff pack 7 |Windows}} | {{DLC/row| Kitchen & Bath Interior Design Stuff | Stuff pack 7 |Windows}} | ||
{{DLC/row| IKEA Home Stuff | Stuff pack 8 |Windows}} | {{DLC/row| IKEA Home Stuff | Stuff pack 8 |Windows}} | ||
− | {{DLC/row| Mansion & Garden Stuff | Stuff pack 9 |Windows}} | + | {{DLC/row| Mansion & Garden Stuff | Stuff pack 9; default executable of The Ultimate Collection as it is the latest release. |Windows}} |
}} | }} | ||
Line 75: | Line 104: | ||
===Patches=== | ===Patches=== | ||
− | {{ii}} Retail versions of the | + | {{ii}} Retail versions of the game require [https://simsvip.com/sims-games/patches/ patching] and installing expansion packs/stuff packs in the correct order which can be found [https://answers.ea.com/t5/Other-The-Sims-Games/installing-sims-2-in-order/m-p/2468094/highlight/true#M5631 here]. The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection on Origin is already updated to the last patch. |
− | {{ii}} Although the game's patch site has now gone down, many | + | {{ii}} Although the game's patch site has now gone down, many patches are available from [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/16-the-sims-2-the-sims-2-patcheszip-expansion-pack-patches/ here] or [https://modthesims.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:TS2_Patches here]. Patch notes can be found [https://sims.fandom.com/wiki/Category:Patches_and_updates_for_The_Sims_2 here]. |
+ | |||
+ | ===[http://www.ntcore.com/4gb_patch.php Large Address Aware Patch]=== | ||
+ | {{++}} Enables support for 4GB of RAM, which should allow for smoother gameplay, faster loading times, better FPS and less frequent crashes. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===[https://www.simsnetwork.com/tools/graphics-rules-maker Graphics Rules Maker]=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Updates the game configuration files to make sure the game recognizes processor, graphics card and screen resolution while improving performance. This tool solves the most common issues that occur on newer systems, such as graphics settings being inaccessible or not getting applied on newer GPUs, as well as black square Sim shadows. | ||
===Skip intro videos=== | ===Skip intro videos=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Delete or rename video files|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Delete or rename video files|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/26305-13-skip-intro#r1330788|title=TS2; skip intro - PC Gaming - Tom's Hardware|date=}}</ref>|fix= |
'''For the base game:''' | '''For the base game:''' | ||
− | * Delete {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} in | + | * Delete or rename {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} in {{folder|{{p|game}}\TSData\Res\Movies}}. |
'''For the Ultimate Collection:''' | '''For the Ultimate Collection:''' | ||
− | # Delete {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} in | + | # Delete or rename {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} in {{folder|{{p|game}}\Fun with Pets\SP9\TSData\Res\Movies}}. |
− | # Delete {{file|intro_eng_audio.movie}} in | + | # Delete or rename {{file|intro_eng_audio.movie}} in {{folder|{{p|game}}\Double Deluxe\Base\TSData\Res\Movies}}. |
+ | |||
+ | Note that for the Ultimate Collection, attempting to delete {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} usually results in the game loading the next one available in the expansion folders. | ||
+ | Therefore all of them should be renamed or deleted. | ||
+ | # Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}}}. | ||
+ | # Search for {{file|ealogo_audio.movie}} in the search bar. | ||
+ | # Delete or rename all of these files. | ||
}} | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===RPC Launcher=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Adds Discord Rich Prescence, among other fix including "first-born syndrome" due to broken internal RNG. [https://lazyduchess.tumblr.com/post/663300390464471040/the-sims2rpc-rebrand-update More information and downloads here.] | ||
===Improved view distances=== | ===Improved view distances=== | ||
{{Fixbox|description=Remove fog|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/thesims/comments/5fxh1q/this_is_how_sims_2_can_look_in_2016/danrega/|title=This is how Sims 2 can look in 2016 : thesims|date=}}</ref>|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Remove fog|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/thesims/comments/5fxh1q/this_is_how_sims_2_can_look_in_2016/danrega/|title=This is how Sims 2 can look in 2016 : thesims|date=}}</ref>|fix= | ||
− | # Open cheat console with {{key|Ctrl|Shift|C}}. | + | # Open the cheat console with {{key|Ctrl|Shift|C}}. |
# Type <code>boolprop dontMergeNHFlora false</code> and <code>uintProp lotSkirtSizeIncrease 120</code>. | # Type <code>boolprop dontMergeNHFlora false</code> and <code>uintProp lotSkirtSizeIncrease 120</code>. | ||
{{ii}} Cheats can be loaded on game start by adding them to the [[#Game data|configuration file]]. | {{ii}} Cheats can be loaded on game start by adding them to the [[#Game data|configuration file]]. | ||
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{{Game data/config|OS X|}} | {{Game data/config|OS X|}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{ii}} | + | {{ii}} {{folder|{{p|game}}}} changes according to what expansions are installed. For example, the path of Ultimate Collection or all expansions would be <code>...\Fun with Pets\SP9\...</code>. |
===Save game data location=== | ===Save game data location=== | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims 2\|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims™ 2 Ultimate Collection\}} | {{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims 2\|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims™ 2 Ultimate Collection\}} | ||
− | {{Game data/saves|OS X|}} | + | {{Game data/saves|OS X|{{p|osxhome}}/Library/Application Support/Aspyr/The Sims 2|~/Library/Containers/com.aspyr.sims2.appstore/Data/Library/Application Support/Aspyr/The Sims 2 ''(Mac App Store version)''<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.aspyr.com/hc/en-us/articles/360056571831-How-to-find-my-Saves-and-Game-Folder|title=How to find my Saves and Game Folder - Aspyr|date=May 2023}}</ref>}} |
}} | }} | ||
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]=== | ||
{{Save game cloud syncing | {{Save game cloud syncing | ||
− | |discord | + | |discord = |
− | |discord notes | + | |discord notes = |
− | |epic games | + | |epic games launcher = |
− | |epic games | + | |epic games launcher notes = |
− | |gog galaxy | + | |gog galaxy = |
− | |gog galaxy notes | + | |gog galaxy notes = |
− | |origin | + | |origin = false |
− | |origin notes | + | |origin notes = |
− | |steam cloud | + | |steam cloud = |
− | |steam cloud notes | + | |steam cloud notes = |
− | | | + | |ubisoft connect = |
− | | | + | |ubisoft connect notes = |
− | |xbox cloud | + | |xbox cloud = |
− | |xbox cloud notes | + | |xbox cloud notes = |
}} | }} | ||
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|4k ultra hd wsgf award = incomplete | |4k ultra hd wsgf award = incomplete | ||
|widescreen resolution = true | |widescreen resolution = true | ||
− | |widescreen resolution notes= | + | |widescreen resolution notes= Up to 1280x720 by default. For more widescreen resolutions see [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]. |
|multimonitor = unknown | |multimonitor = unknown | ||
|multimonitor notes = | |multimonitor notes = | ||
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|anisotropic notes = | |anisotropic notes = | ||
|antialiasing = true | |antialiasing = true | ||
− | |antialiasing notes = Enabled with the Smooth Edges slider. See[[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]] if it is greyed-out. | + | |antialiasing notes = Enabled with the Smooth Edges slider. See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]] if it is greyed-out. |
− | |vsync = | + | |upscaling = unknown |
− | |vsync notes = On by default.<br/>Can be disabled by using the <code>vsync off</code> command in the console ({{key|Ctrl|Shift|C}}) but may crash the game. | + | |upscaling tech = |
+ | |upscaling notes = | ||
+ | |vsync = always on | ||
+ | |vsync notes = On by default.<br/>Can be disabled by using the <code>vsync off</code> command in the console ({{key|Ctrl|Shift|C}}) but that may crash the game. | ||
|60 fps = true | |60 fps = true | ||
|60 fps notes = | |60 fps notes = | ||
|120 fps = true | |120 fps = true | ||
− | |120 fps notes = | + | |120 fps notes = The refresh rate option goes up to 100 Hz.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dCr_gCfN0U&t=1107 The Sims 2 Windows 10 Graphics Patch *FIX PINK FLASHING* - YouTube]</ref> Windowed mode correctly uses the desktop's refresh rate even higher than that.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Keith|date=2020-04-02|comment=}}</ref><br/>Running the game above 60 FPS may cause sluggish camera movement, see [[#Intermittent_sluggishness_when_moving_the_camera|Intermittent sluggishness when moving the camera]]. |
|hdr = unknown | |hdr = unknown | ||
|hdr notes = | |hdr notes = | ||
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===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ||
− | {{ii}} The | + | {{ii}} The game cannot detect modern graphics cards properly and may set the game to lock the resolution to 800x600 regardless of monitor's highest supported resolution. Additionally its maximum supported resolution is 1600x1200. |
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use the [[#Graphics Rules Maker|Graphics Rules Maker]]|ref=<ref name="refcheck Fudgesiclesxd">{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28}}</ref>|fix= | |
− | {{Fixbox|description=Use the Graphics | + | # Open the program and select '''The Sims 2''' in the game dropdown menu. If it doesn't automatically find the game, browse to the latest installed expansion or stuff pack. |
− | |||
− | # Open the program and select '''The Sims 2''' in the game dropdown menu. If it doesn't automatically find the game, browse to the latest installed expansion | ||
# Modify the settings under '''Game Tweaks''' to apply the desired fixes. | # Modify the settings under '''Game Tweaks''' to apply the desired fixes. | ||
# Press '''Save Files...''' and click '''Yes''' in the window that appears. | # Press '''Save Files...''' and click '''Yes''' in the window that appears. | ||
− | {{ii}} If despite using the tool the game cannot run above 800x600 resolution, or the game is locked to 4:3 aspect ratio, see | + | {{ii}} If despite using the tool the game cannot run above 800x600 resolution, or the game is locked to 4:3 aspect ratio, see the manual method below. |
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Manual resolution fix|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Yilku1|date=2022-08-29}}</ref>|fix= |
− | + | Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]] and open {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}}. | |
− | {{ | + | * Search for: |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
<pre>option ScreenModeResolution | <pre>option ScreenModeResolution | ||
setting $Low | setting $Low | ||
− | uintProp maxResWidth | + | uintProp maxResWidth 800 |
− | uintProp maxResHeight | + | uintProp maxResHeight 600 |
− | uintProp defaultResWidth 800 | + | uintProp defaultResWidth 800 |
uintProp defaultResHeight 600 | uintProp defaultResHeight 600 | ||
− | + | </pre></li> | |
− | + | *Set '''maxResWidth''' and '''maxResHeight''' to the display's native width and height. | |
− | + | </ol> | |
− | + | {{ii}} E.g., for a 1920x1080 resolution: | |
− | + | <pre>option ScreenModeResolution | |
− | + | setting $Low | |
− | + | uintProp maxResWidth 1920 | |
− | setting $ | + | uintProp maxResHeight 1080 |
− | uintProp maxResWidth | + | uintProp defaultResWidth 1920 |
− | uintProp maxResHeight | + | uintProp defaultResHeight 1080 |
− | uintProp defaultResWidth | + | </pre></li> |
− | uintProp defaultResHeight | + | *Save and close. |
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]=== | ||
− | {{ii}} Each of the game's cameras can have their FOV set independently using the FOV parameter in their camera settings files, which are located in | + | {{ii}} Each of the game's cameras can have their FOV set independently using the FOV parameter in their camera settings files, which are located in {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims 2\Cameras}}. |
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]=== | ||
− | {{ii}} The Sims 2 cannot determine how much VRAM modern GPUs have. As a result it defaults to its failsafe, which is 32 MB, and prevents edge smoothing. | + | {{ii}} The Sims 2 cannot determine how much VRAM modern GPUs have. As a result, it defaults to its failsafe, which is 32 MB, and prevents edge smoothing. If the [[#Graphics Rules Maker|Graphics Rules Maker]] does not fix it, edit the config file manually. |
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Manually raise the amount of fallback value|ref=<ref name="2022-08-04">{{Refcheck|user=Nessy|date=2022-08-04|comment=}}</ref>|fix= | |
− | {{Fixbox|description= | ||
<ol> | <ol> | ||
<li>Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]].</li> | <li>Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]].</li> | ||
− | <li> Open | + | <li> Open {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}}.</li> |
<li> Find the following section: | <li> Find the following section: | ||
<pre>if (not $useSoftwareRasterizer) | <pre>if (not $useSoftwareRasterizer) | ||
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==Input== | ==Input== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Alt-tabbing may not work properly during the game's loading screens. | ||
{{Input | {{Input | ||
|key remap = false | |key remap = false | ||
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==Audio== | ==Audio== | ||
− | |||
− | |||
{{Image|The Sims2 Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}} | {{Image|The Sims2 Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}} | ||
{{Audio | {{Audio | ||
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|closed captions = n/a | |closed captions = n/a | ||
|closed captions notes = | |closed captions notes = | ||
− | |mute on focus lost = | + | |mute on focus lost = always on |
|mute on focus lost notes = | |mute on focus lost notes = | ||
|eax support = | |eax support = | ||
|eax support notes = | |eax support notes = | ||
+ | |royalty free audio = true | ||
+ | |royalty free audio notes = Parts of the BGM OST is listed on streaming services, but have not been known to trigger auto-DMCA systems. The Simlish version of Lily Allen's ''Smile'' that was added in the Seasons pack, may potentially trigger ContentID due to the instrumental intro, but individual songs can be turned off in the settings. | ||
}} | }} | ||
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{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
|language = English | |language = English | ||
+ | |interface = true | ||
+ | |audio = n/a | ||
+ | |subtitles = n/a | ||
+ | |notes = | ||
+ | |fan = | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = Simplified Chinese | ||
+ | |interface = true | ||
+ | |audio = n/a | ||
+ | |subtitles = n/a | ||
+ | |notes = | ||
+ | |fan = | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = Traditional Chinese | ||
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
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|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | + | ||
− | + | ==Issues fixed== | |
− | + | ===Game stuck in 800x600 resolution=== | |
− | + | See [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]. | |
− | + | ||
− | + | ===No Anti-Aliasing available=== | |
− | + | See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]. | |
+ | |||
+ | ===Cannot set shadows to high quality setting=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Use the [[#Graphics Rules Maker|Graphics Rules Maker]] or edit the config manually as follows. | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Use a custom config file|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | ||
+ | # Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]]. | ||
+ | # Make a backup of {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}}. | ||
+ | # Edit {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}} and paste the content provided [https://raw.githubusercontent.com/dw5/Sims-2-graphics-rules/master/Graphics%20Rules.sgr here]. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Black square shadows=== | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Use DXVK to fix shadow issues|ref=<ref name="dxvk">[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UT0HX3cO4xLft2KozGypU_N7ZcGQVr-54QD9asFsx5U/edit The Sims 2: 2022 Setup Guide - osab - Google Docs]</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | # Download [https://github.com/doitsujin/dxvk/releases DXVK]. | ||
+ | # Follow this [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UT0HX3cO4xLft2KozGypU_N7ZcGQVr-54QD9asFsx5U/edit#heading=h.3mu9pvn16qi8 guide on how to install DXVK for The Sims 2]. | ||
}} | }} | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Download Sim Shadow Fix|ref=<ref name="refcheck Fudgesiclesxd">{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28}}</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | # Go [https://modthesims.info/download.php?t=569585 here] and download the prefered file. (0.2 shadows are more opaque, 0.4 more transparent and 0.3 are in between). | ||
+ | # Extract the {{file|.package}} file inside the downloaded zip file to {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\EA Games\The Sims™ 2 Ultimate Collection\Downloads}}. | ||
+ | |||
+ | '''Notes''' | ||
+ | {{ii}} If using an Intel HD Graphics card, the author recommends downloading the '''xReallyNotMisty''' versions of the fix. | ||
+ | {{ii}} If using this manual fix, '''do not enable''' <code>Disable Sim Shadows</code> on [[#Graphics Rules Maker|Graphics Rules Maker]] as this option disable all shadows cast from a Sim. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | + | ===Windows Vista / 7 compatibility=== | |
− | ===Vista/7 | + | {{ii}} The retail release of the game might show an error message when loaded. [[#Patches|Patching the game]] or installing the expansion packs will correct this.{{cn|date=August 2022}} |
− | {{ii}} | ||
===Can't install the retail version on Windows 10=== | ===Can't install the retail version on Windows 10=== | ||
{{ii}} Attempting to install via <code>AutoRun.exe</code> returns an error message: "This app has been blocked for your protection; An administrator has blocked you from running this app" | {{ii}} Attempting to install via <code>AutoRun.exe</code> returns an error message: "This app has been blocked for your protection; An administrator has blocked you from running this app" | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Disable UAC temporarily|ref=<ref> | + | {{Fixbox|description=Run {{File|AutoRun.exe}} through Task Manager|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Jathom95|date=2023-12-21}}</ref>|fix= |
− | # Open the Registry Editor | + | #Open Task Manager, click "Run new task". |
− | + | #In the "Open" field, type the path to the drive that AutoRun.exe is located on, such as '''D:\AutoRun.exe''' | |
+ | #Tick "Create this task with administrative privileges" beneath the text field. | ||
+ | #Click OK. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Disable UAC temporarily|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.games4theworld.club/t35900-blocked-can-t-start-the-autorun-solved#|title=Blocked, can't start the autorun. [SOLVED]|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | # Open the Registry Editor and go to {{Registry|{{p|hklm}}\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System}}. | ||
# Double-click on <code>EnableLUA</code>. | # Double-click on <code>EnableLUA</code>. | ||
# Change the value from <code>1</code> to <code>0</code>, and click OK. | # Change the value from <code>1</code> to <code>0</code>, and click OK. | ||
Line 516: | Line 588: | ||
===Temporarily freezing during launch with certain AMD GPUs on Windows 10=== | ===Temporarily freezing during launch with certain AMD GPUs on Windows 10=== | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues|ref=<ref name="dxvk"/>|fix= | ||
+ | # Download [https://github.com/doitsujin/dxvk/releases DXVK]. | ||
+ | # Follow this [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UT0HX3cO4xLft2KozGypU_N7ZcGQVr-54QD9asFsx5U/edit#heading=h.3mu9pvn16qi8 guide on how to install DXVK for The Sims 2]. | ||
+ | }} | ||
{{ii}} Newer versions of the Radeon Adrenalin driver software cause this issue. | {{ii}} Newer versions of the Radeon Adrenalin driver software cause this issue. | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Rollback to Radeon Adrenalin driver v.18.12.1.1|ref=|fix= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Rollback to Radeon Adrenalin driver v.18.12.1.1|ref={{cn|date=August 2022}}|fix= |
# Download [https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/display-driver-uninstaller-download.html DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller)]. | # Download [https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/display-driver-uninstaller-download.html DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller)]. | ||
# Download [https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/amd-radeon-adrenalin-edition-18-12-1-driver-download.html Radeon Adrenalin v.18.12.1.1] or earlier. | # Download [https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/amd-radeon-adrenalin-edition-18-12-1-driver-download.html Radeon Adrenalin v.18.12.1.1] or earlier. | ||
Line 531: | Line 607: | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | ===Failed to find any DirectX 9.0c compatible graphics adapters during launch=== |
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues|ref=<ref name="dxvk"/>|fix= | ||
# Download [https://github.com/doitsujin/dxvk/releases DXVK]. | # Download [https://github.com/doitsujin/dxvk/releases DXVK]. | ||
− | # Follow this [https://docs.google.com/document/d/ | + | # Follow this [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UT0HX3cO4xLft2KozGypU_N7ZcGQVr-54QD9asFsx5U/edit#heading=h.3mu9pvn16qi8 guide on how to install DXVK for The Sims 2]. |
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{ii}} This issue might occur for certain AMD GPUs on Windows 10. In particular HBCC for AMD Vega GPUs. | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=August 2022}}|fix= | ||
+ | Open Global Graphics Settings in Radeon Settings → Advanced → deactivate HBCC. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{ii}} The problem might also occur if the monitor does not support 60 Hz. | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=August 2022}}|fix= | ||
+ | Run the game in windowed mode, by adding the <code>-w</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|launch parameter]]<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.ea.com/t5/Other-The-Sims-Games/the-sims-2-direct-x-9-0c/m-p/3205351/highlight/true#M7423|title=The Sims 2, DirectX 9.0c error,</ref> or installing [https://modthesims.info/d/648220/sims2rpc-modded-sims-2-launcher-for-mansion-and-garden.html Sims2RPC] launcher and launching the game in Borderless fullscreen. | ||
+ | {{++}} The frame rate will match the monitor frequency, breaking the internal 100 FPS limit. | ||
+ | {{--}} The edge scrolling will stop working. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | === | + | {{Fixbox|description=Alternative|ref={{cn|date=August 2022}}|fix= |
− | {{ | + | Create a custom resolution at 60 Hz using the [https://www.monitortests.com/forum/Thread-Custom-Resolution-Utility-CRU CRU] tool. |
+ | {{ii}} The screen mode does not have to be used before running the game, the game will automatically select it. | ||
+ | {{--}} It locks the frame rate to 60 Hz. | ||
+ | {{--}} Possible frame pacing issues. | ||
+ | }} | ||
===Fix crashing with Nvidia 1XXX and Windows 10=== | ===Fix crashing with Nvidia 1XXX and Windows 10=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Apply | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues|ref=<ref name="dxvk"/>|fix= |
+ | # Download [https://github.com/doitsujin/dxvk/releases DXVK]. | ||
+ | # Follow this [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UT0HX3cO4xLft2KozGypU_N7ZcGQVr-54QD9asFsx5U/edit#heading=h.3mu9pvn16qi8 guide on how to install DXVK for The Sims 2]. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Apply 4 GB fix to the executable|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://pleasantsims.com/sims-2-windows-10/|title=pleasantsims.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= | ||
# Download the [https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371 4GB Patch]. | # Download the [https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371 4GB Patch]. | ||
# Extract {{file|4gb_patch.zip}}. | # Extract {{file|4gb_patch.zip}}. | ||
# Run {{file|4gb_patch.exe}}. | # Run {{file|4gb_patch.exe}}. | ||
− | # Apply patch to {{ | + | # Apply patch to the desired game executable within {{folder|{{p|game}}\TSBin}} ({{file|Sims2.exe}} for base game, {{file|Sims2EP#.exe}} for expansion packs, {{file|Sims2SP#.exe}} for stuff packs). |
− | }} | ||
− | |||
− | {{ | ||
− | # | ||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
Line 558: | Line 649: | ||
===Neighbourhoods inaccessible in Ultimate Collection=== | ===Neighbourhoods inaccessible in Ultimate Collection=== | ||
{{Fixbox|description=Remove ™ in registry key|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Remove ™ in registry key|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | ||
− | # Go to | + | # Go to {{Registry|{{p|hklm}}\SOFTWARE\{{p|wow64}}\EA GAMES\The Sims 2}}. |
− | + | # Delete <code>™</code> from <code>The Sims 2™ Ultimate Collection</code> in the Display Name. | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | === | + | ===Low quality neighborhood terrain, or generally poor visual quality with Intel Graphics.=== |
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=If using Graphics Rules Maker, Enable <code>High Quality on Intel Graphics</code>|ref=<ref name="refcheck Fudgesiclesxd">{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28}}</ref>|fix= |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Disable the game's tweaks for Intel graphics|ref=<ref name="refcheck Fudgesiclesxd">{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28}}</ref>|fix= | |
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | # Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]].</li> |
− | # | + | # Open {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}}</li> |
− | # | + | # Find the following section, below {{code|elseif (match("${cardVendor}", "Intel"))}} |
− | {{ | + | <pre>boolProp simpleTerrain true |
+ | boolProp enumerateMultisampleLevels false | ||
+ | boolProp disableVSyncSupport true | ||
+ | boolProp useShaders false</pre> | ||
+ | # Comment out all four tweaks by adding <code>#</code> before <code>boolProp</code> on each, or remove them altogether. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Enable high quality neighborhood terrain only|ref=<ref name="refcheck Fudgesiclesxd">{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28}}</ref>|fix= | |
− | {{Fixbox|description=Enable high quality neighborhood terrain|ref=|fix= | ||
<ol> | <ol> | ||
<li>Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]].</li> | <li>Navigate to the [[#Game data|configuration file location]].</li> | ||
− | <li>Open | + | <li>Open {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}}</li> |
<li>Find the following section: | <li>Find the following section: | ||
− | <pre> | + | <pre>boolProp simpleTerrain true</pre> |
and change <code>true</code> to <code>false</code>.</li> | and change <code>true</code> to <code>false</code>.</li> | ||
</ol> | </ol> | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Z-fighting or trailing black squares=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Issues caused by internal dirty rectangle cleanup conflicts with ReShade or when using graphics card's utilities to force multisample/supersampling anti-aliasing methods. Or drivers that doesn't properly handle framebuffer clear operations. | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Disable turbo rect or dirty rect.|ref=<ref>{{refcheck|user=Fudgesiclesxd|date=2023-02-28|comment=Issues found when running normally with system running Intel HD 4600, also dirty rect related issues also encountered when I force adaptive MSAA through AMD Settings app. However the fix also solves issue when using ReShade shaders that access depth buffer.}}</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | # Create or open {{file|userStartup.cheat}} in [[#Game data|save data location]]\Config folder. | ||
+ | # Add {{code|boolProp useTurboRect false}}. If existed and/or populated, add it on a new line. | ||
+ | # Save the file normally. | ||
+ | {{ii}} Alternatively, dirty rects can be disabled entirely with {{code|intProp dynamicRenderStrategy 0}} instead, or alongside with turbo rect above. However, this may have large impact to performance on some systems. | ||
}} | }} | ||
===Stuck Sims/Poorly Placed Objects/Frozen Objects=== | ===Stuck Sims/Poorly Placed Objects/Frozen Objects=== | ||
− | {{ | + | {{ii}} Periodically, a sim may become trapped or a special object may be placed in a bad location, preventing a sim from doing anything. In other cases, a normal object may be improperly tagged as "in use" and cannot be moved, sold, or manipulated. |
− | {{ | + | {{ii}} Use this cheat carefully. Some objects like the mailbox cannot be replaced once deleted. |
{{Fixbox|description=Use <code>moveobjects</code> cheat code|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Use <code>moveobjects</code> cheat code|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | ||
Line 623: | Line 702: | ||
{{Fixbox|description=Disable the touchpad|ref={{cn|date=March 2020}}}} | {{Fixbox|description=Disable the touchpad|ref={{cn|date=March 2020}}}} | ||
{{Fixbox|description=Alternatively, play with the touchpad instead of a mouse|ref={{cn|date=March 2020}}}} | {{Fixbox|description=Alternatively, play with the touchpad instead of a mouse|ref={{cn|date=March 2020}}}} | ||
+ | {{ii}} If playing on a desktop PC, it is solved by pressing {{key|tab}} when selecting options in the pie menu. | ||
− | {{ii}} | + | ===Intermittent sluggishness when moving the camera=== |
+ | {{ii}} The game might seem like it "lags" or it is otherwise not smooth when the camera moves while the game is running above 60 FPS. | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=[https://www.pcgamingwiki.com/wiki/Glossary:Frame_rate_(FPS)#Frame_rate_capping Limit the game to 60 FPS.]|ref={{cn|date=August 2022}} | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Set refresh rate on 60hz.|fix= | ||
+ | }} | ||
==Other information== | ==Other information== | ||
===API=== | ===API=== | ||
{{API | {{API | ||
− | |direct3d versions = | + | |direct3d versions = 9.0c |
|direct3d notes = | |direct3d notes = | ||
|directdraw versions = | |directdraw versions = | ||
Line 651: | Line 737: | ||
|windows 32-bit exe = true | |windows 32-bit exe = true | ||
|windows 64-bit exe = false | |windows 64-bit exe = false | ||
+ | |windows arm app = unknown | ||
|windows exe notes = | |windows exe notes = | ||
|mac os x powerpc app = true | |mac os x powerpc app = true | ||
|macos intel 32-bit app = true | |macos intel 32-bit app = true | ||
|macos intel 64-bit app = true | |macos intel 64-bit app = true | ||
+ | |macos arm app = unknown | ||
|macos app notes = Starting with the Nightlife expansion in 2006, the game and all its expansions were made universal binaries for Intel Macs, which continued until the Bon Voyage expansion in late 2007.<br><br>The Apartment Life and FreeTime expansions were not released individually and thus require the Ultimate Collection, which is Intel-only. Fortunately, it is fully 64-bit as of 2019. | |macos app notes = Starting with the Nightlife expansion in 2006, the game and all its expansions were made universal binaries for Intel Macs, which continued until the Bon Voyage expansion in late 2007.<br><br>The Apartment Life and FreeTime expansions were not released individually and thus require the Ultimate Collection, which is Intel-only. Fortunately, it is fully 64-bit as of 2019. | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 661: | Line 749: | ||
{{ii}} The Sims 2 attracted a large modding community, allowing further customization features. Unfortunately, even properly designed mods could increase the chances of crashes and errors in the game. Mods have a major impact on loading time and stability, and should be used with discretion if issues arise. | {{ii}} The Sims 2 attracted a large modding community, allowing further customization features. Unfortunately, even properly designed mods could increase the chances of crashes and errors in the game. Mods have a major impact on loading time and stability, and should be used with discretion if issues arise. | ||
− | ===Official | + | ===Official tools=== |
{{ii}} These tools were created by Maxis and formerly hosted on the game's official website. | {{ii}} These tools were created by Maxis and formerly hosted on the game's official website. | ||
* [http://simfileshare.net/folder/27849/ Content Manager] - Allows to manage mods and custom content. | * [http://simfileshare.net/folder/27849/ Content Manager] - Allows to manage mods and custom content. | ||
− | |||
* [https://archive.org/details/TS2HomeCrafterPlus HomeCrafter Plus] - Allows to create custom floors and walls. | * [https://archive.org/details/TS2HomeCrafterPlus HomeCrafter Plus] - Allows to create custom floors and walls. | ||
− | |||
* [ftp://largedownloads.ea.com/pub/misc/Sims2BodyShop/ BodyShop] ([http://largedownloads.ea.com/pub/demos/Sims2/TheSims2Introduction.zip Demo]) - Allow to create custom sims, hair and clothes. | * [ftp://largedownloads.ea.com/pub/misc/Sims2BodyShop/ BodyShop] ([http://largedownloads.ea.com/pub/demos/Sims2/TheSims2Introduction.zip Demo]) - Allow to create custom sims, hair and clothes. | ||
{{--}} The Sims 2 and the BodyShop Demo should not be installed on the same machine at the same time. Existing save games may corrupt and other issues may arise. | {{--}} The Sims 2 and the BodyShop Demo should not be installed on the same machine at the same time. Existing save games may corrupt and other issues may arise. | ||
Line 680: | Line 766: | ||
|minHD = 3.5 GB | |minHD = 3.5 GB | ||
|minGPU = ATI Radeon 7200 | |minGPU = ATI Radeon 7200 | ||
− | |minGPU2 = Nvidia GeForce2 Series | + | |minGPU2 = Nvidia GeForce2 Series<br>Intel® Extreme Graphics |
|minVRAM = 32 MB | |minVRAM = 32 MB | ||
− | |minDX = 9 | + | |minDX = 9.0c |
|recOS = XP, Vista, 7 | |recOS = XP, Vista, 7 | ||
Line 691: | Line 777: | ||
|recGPU2 = Nvidia GeForce 6 series | |recGPU2 = Nvidia GeForce 6 series | ||
|recVRAM = 64 MB | |recVRAM = 64 MB | ||
− | |notes = {{ii}} | + | |notes = {{ii}} System with non-T&L capable video card, such as Intel Extreme Graphics or Radeon VE requires a system with 2 GHz processors or faster. 2.4 GHz if Seasons or later expansion pack is installed.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/sims-2-seasons/techinfo|title=The Sims 2: Seasons for Windows (2007) Tech Info - MobyGames|date=May 2023}}</ref> |
}} | }} | ||
Line 697: | Line 783: | ||
|OSfamily = OS X | |OSfamily = OS X | ||
− | |minOS = 10. | + | |minOS = 10.12 (Sierra) or later |
− | |minCPU = | + | |minCPU = 2.2Ghz |
− | | | + | |minRAM = 4 GB |
− | |minHD = | + | |minHD = 10 GB |
− | |minGPU = | + | |minGPU = Nvidia 330M |
− | | | + | |minGPU2 = Radeon HD 4670 |
− | |minVRAM = | + | |minGPU3 = Intel HD 3000 |
+ | |minVRAM = 256 MB | ||
+ | |notes = {{ii}} Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system. The Sims™ 2: Super Collection does not support hard drive volumes formatted as Mac OS Extended (CaseSensitive). | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{References}} | {{References}} |
Revision as of 13:09, 9 April 2024
Developers | |
---|---|
Maxis | |
Pets, Apartment Life | EA Redwood Shores |
macOS (OS X) | Aspyr Media |
Publishers | |
Electronic Arts | |
Engines | |
The Sims 2 Engine | |
Release dates | |
Windows | September 14, 2004 |
macOS (OS X) | June 13, 2005 |
Reception | |
Metacritic | 90 |
IGDB | 71 |
Taxonomy | |
Monetization | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack, DLC, Sponsored, Cross-game bonus |
Modes | Singleplayer |
Pacing | Real-time |
Perspectives | Bird's-eye view |
Controls | Point and select |
Genres | Life sim |
Themes | Contemporary, Zombies |
Series | The Sims |
The Sims | |
---|---|
Subseries of Sim | |
The Sims | 2000 |
The Sims Online | 2002 |
The Sims 2 | 2004 |
The Sims Stories (series) | |
MySims | 2008 |
The Sims 3 | 2009 |
The Sims Medieval | 2011 |
The Sims 4 | 2014 |
The Sims 2 is a singleplayer bird's-eye view life sim game in the The Sims series.
General information
Availability
Source | DRM | Notes | Keys | OS |
---|---|---|---|---|
Retail | SafeDisc v3 DRM[Note 1]. Later expansions use v4 or SecuROM 7 and SecuROM PA DRM. A De-Authorization Tool is available for three expansions. Custom DRM code may sabotage the game by disabling the build mode and the saving system. Released on 4 CDs or 1 DVD. |
|||
Mac App Store | Super Collection. | |||
Origin (unavailable) | Pulled from the Origin store in August 2014. |
- SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see above for affected versions).
- All Origin versions are automatically upgraded to The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection. Contact the EA Support for retail versions.[3]
- The Ultimate Collection from Origin no longer uses SecuROM DRM.[4] However, it still requires Origin running to play.
- Multiple faithful, higher quality icons can be found on SteamGridDB.
Version differences
- List of all different versions and regions can be found on Wikipedia.
Monetization
Type | Notes |
---|---|
Cross-game bonus | Worlds made in SimCity 4 can be imported as neighborhood templates. |
DLC | Between 2008 and 2011, a "The Sims 2 Store Edition" client that required Pets and was included with Apartment Life,[5] could be used to buy items for real money. |
Expansion pack | The game has 8 expansion packs, and 9 "Stuff" packs. |
One-time game purchase | The base game is sold for money. |
Sponsored | H&M Fashion Stuff and IKEA Home Stuff were sponsored by Hennes & Mauritz and IKEA respectively. |
DLC and expansion packs
Name | Notes | |
---|---|---|
University | Expansion 1 | |
Nightlife | Expansion 2 | |
Open for Business | Expansion 3 | |
Pets | Expansion 4 | |
Seasons | Expansion 5 | |
Bon Voyage | Expansion 6 | |
FreeTime | Expansion 7 | |
Apartment Life | Expansion 8 | |
Family Fun Stuff | Stuff pack 1 | |
Glamour Life Stuff | Stuff pack 2 | |
Happy Holiday Stuff | Stuff pack 3. Also known as Festive Holiday Stuff in Europe. | |
Celebration! Stuff | Stuff pack 4 | |
H&M Fashion Stuff | Stuff pack 5. Also known as Fashion Stuff in Australia. | |
Teen Style Stuff | Stuff pack 6 | |
Kitchen & Bath Interior Design Stuff | Stuff pack 7 | |
IKEA Home Stuff | Stuff pack 8 | |
Mansion & Garden Stuff | Stuff pack 9; default executable of The Ultimate Collection as it is the latest release. |
Essential improvements
Patches
- Retail versions of the game require patching and installing expansion packs/stuff packs in the correct order which can be found here. The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection on Origin is already updated to the last patch.
- Although the game's patch site has now gone down, many patches are available from here or here. Patch notes can be found here.
Large Address Aware Patch
- Enables support for 4GB of RAM, which should allow for smoother gameplay, faster loading times, better FPS and less frequent crashes.
Graphics Rules Maker
- Updates the game configuration files to make sure the game recognizes processor, graphics card and screen resolution while improving performance. This tool solves the most common issues that occur on newer systems, such as graphics settings being inaccessible or not getting applied on newer GPUs, as well as black square Sim shadows.
Skip intro videos
Delete or rename video files[6] |
---|
For the base game:
For the Ultimate Collection:
Note that for the Ultimate Collection, attempting to delete
|
RPC Launcher
- Adds Discord Rich Prescence, among other fix including "first-born syndrome" due to broken internal RNG. More information and downloads here.
Improved view distances
Remove fog[7] |
---|
|
Game data
Configuration file(s) location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | <path-to-game>\TSData\Res\Config[Note 2] |
macOS (OS X) |
-
<path-to-game>
changes according to what expansions are installed. For example, the path of Ultimate Collection or all expansions would be...\Fun with Pets\SP9\...
.
Save game data location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | %USERPROFILE%\Documents\EA Games\The Sims 2\ %USERPROFILE%\Documents\EA Games\The Sims™ 2 Ultimate Collection\ |
macOS (OS X) | $HOME/Library/Application Support/Aspyr/The Sims 2 ~/Library/Containers/com.aspyr.sims2.appstore/Data/Library/Application Support/Aspyr/The Sims 2 (Mac App Store version)[8] |
Save game cloud syncing
System | Native | Notes |
---|---|---|
Origin | ||
OneDrive | Requires enabling backup of the Documents folder in OneDrive on all computers. |
Video
Graphics feature | State | WSGF | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Widescreen resolution | Up to 1280x720 by default. For more widescreen resolutions see Widescreen resolution. | ||
Multi-monitor | |||
Ultra-widescreen | |||
4K Ultra HD | The text, UI elements and loading screen do not scale with resolution.[9] | ||
Field of view (FOV) | See Field of view (FOV). | ||
Windowed | Use -w launch parameter. |
||
Borderless fullscreen windowed | Use a utility such as GameCompanion together with the windowed launch argument. | ||
Anisotropic filtering (AF) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
Anti-aliasing (AA) | Enabled with the Smooth Edges slider. See Anti-aliasing (AA) if it is greyed-out. | ||
Vertical sync (Vsync) | On by default. Can be disabled by using the vsync off command in the console (Ctrl+⇧ Shift+C) but that may crash the game. |
||
60 FPS and 120+ FPS | The refresh rate option goes up to 100 Hz.[10] Windowed mode correctly uses the desktop's refresh rate even higher than that.[11] Running the game above 60 FPS may cause sluggish camera movement, see Intermittent sluggishness when moving the camera. |
||
High dynamic range display (HDR) | See the glossary page for potential alternatives. |
Widescreen resolution
- The game cannot detect modern graphics cards properly and may set the game to lock the resolution to 800x600 regardless of monitor's highest supported resolution. Additionally its maximum supported resolution is 1600x1200.
Use the Graphics Rules Maker[12] |
---|
|
Manual resolution fix[13] |
---|
Navigate to the configuration file location and open
option ScreenModeResolution setting $Low uintProp maxResWidth 800 uintProp maxResHeight 600 uintProp defaultResWidth 800 uintProp defaultResHeight 600
option ScreenModeResolution setting $Low uintProp maxResWidth 1920 uintProp maxResHeight 1080 uintProp defaultResWidth 1920 uintProp defaultResHeight 1080
|
Field of view (FOV)
- Each of the game's cameras can have their FOV set independently using the FOV parameter in their camera settings files, which are located in
%USERPROFILE%\Documents\EA Games\The Sims 2\Cameras
.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
- The Sims 2 cannot determine how much VRAM modern GPUs have. As a result, it defaults to its failsafe, which is 32 MB, and prevents edge smoothing. If the Graphics Rules Maker does not fix it, edit the config file manually.
Manually raise the amount of fallback value[14] |
---|
|
Input
- Alt-tabbing may not work properly during the game's loading screens.
Keyboard and mouse | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Remapping | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | |
Mouse acceleration | ||
Mouse sensitivity | ||
Mouse input in menus | ||
Mouse Y-axis inversion | ||
Controller | ||
Controller support |
Controller types |
---|
Audio
Audio feature | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Separate volume controls | Voices, sound effects, music and ambience. | |
Surround sound | Stereo, 4.0 and 5.1 | |
Subtitles | No intelligible dialog. All in-game dialog uses the fictional Simlish language. | |
Closed captions | ||
Mute on focus lost | ||
Royalty free audio | Parts of the BGM OST is listed on streaming services, but have not been known to trigger auto-DMCA systems. The Simlish version of Lily Allen's Smile that was added in the Seasons pack, may potentially trigger ContentID due to the instrumental intro, but individual songs can be turned off in the settings. |
Localizations
Language | UI | Audio | Sub | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
English | ||||
Simplified Chinese | ||||
Traditional Chinese | ||||
Czech | ||||
Danish | ||||
Dutch | ||||
Finnish | ||||
French | ||||
German | ||||
Greek | ||||
Hebrew | ||||
Hungarian | ||||
Italian | ||||
Japanese | ||||
Korean | ||||
Norwegian | ||||
Polish | ||||
Portuguese | ||||
Brazilian Portuguese | ||||
Russian | ||||
Spanish | ||||
Swedish | ||||
Thai |
Issues fixed
Game stuck in 800x600 resolution
No Anti-Aliasing available
See Anti-aliasing (AA).
Cannot set shadows to high quality setting
- Use the Graphics Rules Maker or edit the config manually as follows.
Use a custom config file[citation needed] |
---|
|
Black square shadows
Use DXVK to fix shadow issues[15] |
---|
|
Download Sim Shadow Fix[12] |
---|
Notes
|
Windows Vista / 7 compatibility
- The retail release of the game might show an error message when loaded. Patching the game or installing the expansion packs will correct this.[citation needed]
Can't install the retail version on Windows 10
- Attempting to install via
AutoRun.exe
returns an error message: "This app has been blocked for your protection; An administrator has blocked you from running this app"
Run AutoRun.exe through Task Manager[16]
|
---|
|
Disable UAC temporarily[17] |
---|
|
Temporarily freezing during launch with certain AMD GPUs on Windows 10
Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues[15] |
---|
|
- Newer versions of the Radeon Adrenalin driver software cause this issue.
Rollback to Radeon Adrenalin driver v.18.12.1.1[citation needed] |
---|
|
Failed to find any DirectX 9.0c compatible graphics adapters during launch
Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues[15] |
---|
|
- This issue might occur for certain AMD GPUs on Windows 10. In particular HBCC for AMD Vega GPUs.
Instructions[citation needed] |
---|
Open Global Graphics Settings in Radeon Settings → Advanced → deactivate HBCC. |
- The problem might also occur if the monitor does not support 60 Hz.
Instructions[citation needed] |
---|
Run the game in windowed mode, by adding the
|
Alternative[citation needed] |
---|
Create a custom resolution at 60 Hz using the CRU tool.
|
Fix crashing with Nvidia 1XXX and Windows 10
Use DXVK to circumvent DirectX issues[15] |
---|
|
Apply 4 GB fix to the executable[19] |
---|
|
Issues on newer CPUs
- The Sims 2 was made before the release of multi-core CPUs. It may have issues loading on startup on newer CPUs with multiple cores and hyperthreading.
Use -CPUCount:1 launch parameter.[20]
|
---|
Neighbourhoods inaccessible in Ultimate Collection
Remove ™ in registry key[citation needed] |
---|
|
Low quality neighborhood terrain, or generally poor visual quality with Intel Graphics.
If using Graphics Rules Maker, Enable High Quality on Intel Graphics [12]
|
---|
Disable the game's tweaks for Intel graphics[12] |
---|
boolProp simpleTerrain true boolProp enumerateMultisampleLevels false boolProp disableVSyncSupport true boolProp useShaders false
|
Enable high quality neighborhood terrain only[12] |
---|
|
Z-fighting or trailing black squares
- Issues caused by internal dirty rectangle cleanup conflicts with ReShade or when using graphics card's utilities to force multisample/supersampling anti-aliasing methods. Or drivers that doesn't properly handle framebuffer clear operations.
Disable turbo rect or dirty rect.[21] |
---|
|
Stuck Sims/Poorly Placed Objects/Frozen Objects
- Periodically, a sim may become trapped or a special object may be placed in a bad location, preventing a sim from doing anything. In other cases, a normal object may be improperly tagged as "in use" and cannot be moved, sold, or manipulated.
- Use this cheat carefully. Some objects like the mailbox cannot be replaced once deleted.
Use moveobjects cheat code[citation needed]
|
---|
|
"More..." button does not work in conversations
- This issue is caused by using a mouse when playing on a laptop with a touchpad.
Disable the touchpad[citation needed] |
---|
Alternatively, play with the touchpad instead of a mouse[citation needed] |
---|
- If playing on a desktop PC, it is solved by pressing Tab ↹ when selecting options in the pie menu.
Intermittent sluggishness when moving the camera
- The game might seem like it "lags" or it is otherwise not smooth when the camera moves while the game is running above 60 FPS.
Limit the game to 60 FPS.[citation needed] |
---|
Set refresh rate on 60hz. |
---|
Other information
API
Technical specs | Supported | Notes |
---|---|---|
Direct3D | 9.0c |
Executable | PPC | 32-bit | 64-bit | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Windows | ||||
macOS (OS X) | Starting with the Nightlife expansion in 2006, the game and all its expansions were made universal binaries for Intel Macs, which continued until the Bon Voyage expansion in late 2007. The Apartment Life and FreeTime expansions were not released individually and thus require the Ultimate Collection, which is Intel-only. Fortunately, it is fully 64-bit as of 2019. |
Mods
- The Sims 2 attracted a large modding community, allowing further customization features. Unfortunately, even properly designed mods could increase the chances of crashes and errors in the game. Mods have a major impact on loading time and stability, and should be used with discretion if issues arise.
Official tools
- These tools were created by Maxis and formerly hosted on the game's official website.
- Content Manager - Allows to manage mods and custom content.
- HomeCrafter Plus - Allows to create custom floors and walls.
- BodyShop (Demo) - Allow to create custom sims, hair and clothes.
- The Sims 2 and the BodyShop Demo should not be installed on the same machine at the same time. Existing save games may corrupt and other issues may arise.
System requirements
Windows | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum | Recommended | |
Operating system (OS) | 98SE, ME, 2000 | XP, Vista, 7 |
Processor (CPU) | 800 MHz | 2.4 GHz |
System memory (RAM) | 256 MB | 1 GB |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 3.5 GB | 15 GB (with all DLC installed) |
Video card (GPU) | ATI Radeon 7200 Nvidia GeForce2 Series Intel® Extreme Graphics 32 MB of VRAM DirectX 9.0c compatible | ATI Radeon 9600 Nvidia GeForce 6 series 64 MB of VRAM |
- System with non-T&L capable video card, such as Intel Extreme Graphics or Radeon VE requires a system with 2 GHz processors or faster. 2.4 GHz if Seasons or later expansion pack is installed.[22]
macOS (OS X) | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum | ||
Operating system (OS) | 10.12 (Sierra) or later | |
Processor (CPU) | 2.2Ghz | |
System memory (RAM) | 4 GB | |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 10 GB | |
Video card (GPU) | Nvidia 330M Radeon HD 4670 Intel HD 3000 256 MB of VRAM |
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system. The Sims™ 2: Super Collection does not support hard drive volumes formatted as Mac OS Extended (CaseSensitive).
Notes
- ↑ SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows 10[1] or Windows 11 and is disabled by default on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 when the KB3086255 update is installed.[2]
- ↑ When running this game without elevated privileges (Run as administrator option), write operations against a location below
%PROGRAMFILES%
,%PROGRAMDATA%
, or%WINDIR%
might be redirected to%LOCALAPPDATA%\VirtualStore
on Windows Vista and later (more details).
References
- ↑ Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2017-01-16
- ↑ Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16
- ↑ Origin - The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection FAQ
- ↑ The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection: SecuRom Update - Sims Community
- ↑ The Sims 2 Store Edition - last accessed on 28 March 2023
- ↑ TS2; skip intro - PC Gaming - Tom's Hardware - last accessed on
- ↑ This is how Sims 2 can look in 2016 : thesims - last accessed on
- ↑ How to find my Saves and Game Folder - Aspyr - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Forcing The Sims 2 to run in 4K . YouTube - last accessed on 2018-06-16
- ↑ The Sims 2 Windows 10 Graphics Patch *FIX PINK FLASHING* - YouTube
- ↑ Verified by User:Keith on 2020-04-02
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 Verified by User:Fudgesiclesxd on 2023-02-28
- ↑ Verified by User:Yilku1 on 2022-08-29
- ↑ Verified by User:Nessy on 2022-08-04
- ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 15.3 The Sims 2: 2022 Setup Guide - osab - Google Docs
- ↑ Verified by User:Jathom95 on 2023-12-21
- ↑ Blocked, can't start the autorun. [SOLVED] - last accessed on 9 June 2023
- ↑ {{Refurl|url=https://answers.ea.com/t5/Other-The-Sims-Games/the-sims-2-direct-x-9-0c/m-p/3205351/highlight/true#M7423%7Ctitle=The Sims 2, DirectX 9.0c error,
- ↑ pleasantsims.com - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Sims 2, Graphics, Windows 10 - LeeFish forums - last accessed on April 4, 2020
- ↑ Verified by User:Fudgesiclesxd on 2023-02-28
- Issues found when running normally with system running Intel HD 4600, also dirty rect related issues also encountered when I force adaptive MSAA through AMD Settings app. However the fix also solves issue when using ReShade shaders that access depth buffer.
- ↑ The Sims 2: Seasons for Windows (2007) Tech Info - MobyGames - last accessed on May 2023